Factors to Consider in Choosing Between DVD’s and Blu-rays

 

It’s difficult for a layperson to make sense of the increasingly diverse data storage options and to choose the right one in a crowded ecosystem. Hard drives, Solid state drives (SSD), CD’s, DVD’s, Blu-ray discs and now cloud computing have all presented themselves as the ultimate data storage solution at one time or the other. When it comes to specific tasks such as being able to watch visual media such as movies in high-resolution and being able to store large amounts of data, the choice is primarily between DVD’s and Blu-ray discs. 

 

At first glance, Blu-ray discs may seem very similar to DVD’s both in terms of size and handling, but the similarities end right there. There are crucial differences in image resolution, player compatibility, laser technology and the way the discs are built. The two technologies also vary significantly in their relative storage capacities.

 

So how does one choose between two technologies, both remarkable similar in their usage of lasers to convert information into picture and sound, yet significantly different? Here are a few factors to consider when choosing between DVD’s and Blu-Rays.

 

 

Storage Capacity

 

DVD’s, with their limited 4.7 and 8.5 GB capacities can store between 2-4 hours-worth of movie in standard definition. So if you’re not too particular about watching the Avatar in high-definition, the DVD might be right for you. But if you’re a movie buff who likes to be in the thick of all the action, Blue-ray’s massive 25GB and 50 GB capacity options will provide between 2-4 hours of high-definition movie footage or a generous 13 to 26 hours of standard definition capacity. The difference in storage capacity arises from Blue-ray’s blue laser that’s 2 and a half times thinner than the DVD’s red laser resulting in thinner grooves and more space for data.

 

Image Resolution

 

Blue-ray discs can support a high definition 1080 p resolution than the DVD’s 480 p standard resolution. Blue-ray displays excellent picture quality on both standard TV’s and widescreen HDTV while the DVD may manage well on the standard television but become grainy in widescreen TV.

 

Cost

 

Blue-rays cost a bit more than standard DVD’s but the difference is not astronomical and more than makes up for other benefits like picture quality, increased scratch resistance and data storage.

Access to Visual Media

 

DVD’s were introduced in 1996. It’s the older, more established technology and every movie ever made has been released in the DVD format. In comparison, users may struggle to find some of their favorite movies in Blu-ray since a significant number of movies have not been upgraded to the Blu-ray format yet. The latest 3D movies are only available in Blu-ray.

 

Access to Additional Content

 

Your favorite Dave Chappell’s comedy special may now be available with additional content and backscreen commentaries on Blu-ray as it allows for more high-definition video to be stored. DVD’s come with additional content on a separate disc and this complicates storage and retention.

 

Resource Links:

www.toptenreviews.com/electronics/articles/the-difference-between-dvd-an... 
www.windowscentral.com/blu-ray-vs-dvd-vs-cd-differences-and-what-buy-if-... 
www.lifewire.com/blu-ray-disc-player-information-1846364 
www.vox.com/culture/2016/12/27/14057894/physical-media-essential-streami... 
www.ebay.co.uk/gds/Your-Complete-Guide-to-Buying-a-Blu-Ray-and-DVD-Playe...